Residency rules to end? Hockey Alberta proposes changes for 2025

Hockey Alberta has said it plans to introduce significant updates to player eligibility, registration, and movement rules, giving families more flexibility and choice starting in the 2025-2026 season.

For the first time in over 25 years, first-time hockey players would no longer be tied to residency-based boundaries, allowing them to choose the Minor Hockey Association (MHA) that best fits their needs. These changes aim to adapt to the evolving sports landscape, where MHAs face increasing competition to recruit and retain players.

UPDATE: Didsbury RCMP responding to train collision

As of 2 p.m., Didsbury RCMP are advising that the train has been removed and traffic has resumed.

"The investigation continues. Initial investigation shows that the Zoom Boom (not a truck as initially reported), had mechanical trouble while crossing the tracks and became immobile. Unfortunately, this occurred as a train was approaching, and the train collided with the zoom boom on the tracks," stated the RCMP in a press release.

Traffic was previously affected at 23 Street, secondary Highway 582, and 19 Avenue.

Education report and finances highlighted by neighbouring school division

At its latest council meeting, Chinook's Edge Board of Trustees hear reports on their financial statements and Annual Education Results Report.

The Board accepted the financial figures that Treasurer Nadeem Altaf provided for the fiscal year that concluded on August 31, 2024. Both community members on the Board's audit committee and independent auditors from MNP attended the Board meeting.

"The division received $139,232,915 in revenue, while its expenses were $138,280,314 for the 2023-24 school year," stated Chinook's Edge.

Update: Northbound QEII closed near Didsbury following police incident

A previous police incident briefly shut down a portion of the QEII north of Airdrie near Highway 582 near Didsbury, but it was re-opened.  

An RCMP spokesperson wrote that Didsbury RCMP was on the scene of a single-vehicle collision in the center meridian, northbound QEII. Fire crews were also reported to have been dispatched; however, there was no word on injuries. 

When "Ho-Ho-Ho" becomes "Oh No-No-No!"

Ah, the holiday season—a magical time for twinkling lights, warm cocoa, and those Santa photos. You know the ones. Maybe it’s your toddler’s first introduction to the man in red, and they’re totally into it…until they’re not. Or there’s the ultimate holiday drama: the unplanned potty break that makes Rudolph's red nose seem tame.

At Air 106, we know those “picture-perfect” Santa moments can go hilariously haywire. That’s why we’re calling on you to dig into your photo albums and share your Santa Photo Fails!

Freezing fog settles over Airdrie and area highways

A thick blanket of freezing fog has settled over the Airdrie and surrounding area.

Near zero visibility freezing fog is occurring in some areas. Fog developed overnight and is expected to persist until late this morning. Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for taillights ahead and be prepared to stop.

'I really loved it': Didsbury student visits Universal Studios

Last week, a Grade eight student from Didsbury's Westglen School had an incredible time at Universal Studios in California.

Jade Davies had the trip of her life after Kerrie Howery a Family School Wellness Worker at Westglen School nominated her for the trip with the Dreams Take Flight organization in Calgary.

The organization allows kids, who might not normally be able to, to take trips to select locations they will remember forever.

Airdrie residents set for holiday tax breaks and new rebate

The federal government is set to roll out a series of financial relief measures to ease the economic pressures on Canadians, particularly during the holiday season.

These initiatives include a temporary GST/HST break on groceries and holiday essentials from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025, and a $250 Working Canadians Rebate, which will be issued in early spring 2025.

GST/HST Bbreeak for holiday essentials and groceries